Phalsa

     Phalsa (Grewia subinaequalis), a subtropical fruit, is native to India. It is commercially grown in Punjab, Haryana, Gujarat, Maharashtra and Bihar. Its cultivation is favoured around big cities where fruits find a ready and quick sale. It has a poor keeping quality. It is also grown as an intercrop with mango, aonla, bael and ber. Phalsa is bushy plant which can grow into a tree if left unpruned. It is very hardy, and tolerant to drought. It bears many small berry-like fruits of deep reddish-brown colour. Ripe fruits are sub-acidic in taste and a rich source of vitamins (A and C) and minerals (phosphorus and iron). Its medicinal qualities are known since vedic times. The fruits are somewhat astringent and have a cooling effect. They help cure inflammation, heart and blood disorders, fever and constipation.

Climate and soil

          Phalsa being a hardy plant, can withstand drought and can be grown under adverse climatic conditions. It requires distinct winter and summer for better yield and fruit quality. The plants can tolerate even a temperature of 45°C and freezing temperature for a few days. High temperature helps in ripening of fruits. Rains at the time of flowering affect fruit set and crop yield.

           Phalsa can be grown on a wide variety of soils even on moderately sodic soils. It grows well in well-drained, loamy soils. The plant is sensitive to water-logging which makes it chlorotic.Iron chlorosis is a common problem in calcareous soils.